Untitled Document

Significant slowdown expected next several weeks as DMV county offices implement new software for licenses

The Idaho Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is installing new software around the state in late October and early November that affects systems for driver's licenses, identification (ID) cards and various permits. County DMV offices will close for half-day increments, according to the table attached here. As a result, customers will experience longer wait times over the next three to four weeks as staff work to optimize software and security procedures.

All licensing offices in Ada County — the most heavily used offices in the state — will implement the software system on weekends in order to minimize inconvenience to customers. This is also the case for offices in Bannock, Bonneville, Canyon, Kootenia, Owyhee (Marsing) and Twin Falls counties. However, the slowdown will happen at ALL county offices, including these weekend-installation sites. DMV planned new system implementation to coincide with the fall timeframe, which typically features the least demand for license and ID cards.

"We ask our customers to have patience as we implement the software," said DMV Administer Alan Frew. "If your license, ID card or permit is not expiring soon, you may consider waiting until the end of November to renew. Please understand that county employees are working hard to serve customers as quickly as possible."

DMV worked with a new vendor to design the cards using leading-edge security features including:
• Blue/red colors that are the hardest to counterfeit
• Translucent window with a ghost image
• Optically Variable Ink image of the state insect.

While the new licenses and ID cards look different, the cost will remain the same:
- Four-Year License/ID cards - $30
- Eight-Year License/ID - $55
- Duplicate License - $15
- Duplicate ID - $20

The new card vendor, Marquis ID Systems - Gemalto, designed and will produce the new licenses and ID cards, including Concealed Weapons Permits. The company is a license provider for a number of states, including Alaska, Colorado, Hawaii, Wyoming, Maryland, New Hampshire and the District of Columbia.